Gofal’s service user wellbeing day

On the 20th November 2015, Bridgend AM Carwyn Jones was delighted to have been asked to say a few words of welcome at Gofal’s service user wellbeing day . Gofal is a Welsh mental health and wellbeing charity based in Bridgend.

The event, which was held at the Heronston Hotel, was an opportunity for its service users to socialise, share experiences, gain confidence and learn a variety of new skills. Also, it was an opportunity for service users to speak to people who have experienced similar issues and to hear from people who have not allowed their illness to define who they are or what they do; people who have not only turned their lives around but completely transformed their lives, leading active and successful lives.

Gofal had organised some great activities and workshops which were planned throughout the day including an art workshop, a music workshop, a sweet making workshop and a range of complimentary therapies. The latter was particularly valuable for those who do not have access to many social opportunities during their illness

Mr Jones took the opportunity to thank the excellent staff at Gofal for the great work that they do. They work with many people across Wales supporting their independence, recovery, health and wellbeing. It is their belief that people with mental health problems have the right, as citizens, to a range of appropriate and accessible services, information and choice and the right to be consulted about their needs and wishes. It is also good to see the charity’s continuing commitment to the town of Bridgend.